Kiki Shepard, the vivacious host best known for her years on Showtime at the Apollo, has died. Shepard, 74, died March 17, 2026, in Los Angeles after suffering a heart attack, her representative told NBC News.

Early life and stage career

Born Chiquita Renee Shepard in Tyler, Texas, Shepard began her career as a dancer. She worked with the D.C. Repertory Company and danced on Broadway in the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in productions that put her alongside performers such as Gregory Hines.

Television breakthrough and screen work

Shepard became a household name through her long association with Showtime at the Apollo, serving among the rotating hosts from 1987 to 2002. The variety program at Harlem’s Apollo Theatre spotlighted rising talent and established stars; Shepard shared hosting duties with emcees including Steve Harvey, Sinbad, Mo’Nique, Rudy Rush and Mark Curry.

Beyond the Apollo, Shepard made screen appearances on television series including Everybody Hates Chris, A Different World, NYPD Blue and Grey’s Anatomy.

Philanthropy, family and tributes

Shepard was a Howard University graduate and a noted advocate for sickle cell disease awareness. Inspired by a friend’s brother who battled the condition, she founded The K.I.S. Foundation to support those affected in Black communities.

Her family remembered her as a “cherished Sister, Auntie, friend,” and said: “KiKi’s brightness, empathy, and mission will persist,” pledging to continue her work through the foundation. Shepard is survived by her sister, two nieces and a nephew.

Colleagues and friends posted tributes on social media. Mark Curry wrote on Instagram, “Life is too short. She was a good friend and she knew everybody.” (Instagram)

Mo’Nique posted her own message on Instagram: “Kiki Shephard enjoy your next journey.” (Instagram)

Actress Jackée Harry, a close friend, paid tribute on Instagram: “Kiki – my BFF, my road dogg. What will we do without your light? Nobody did it like you. Rest easy, my dear sweet friend.” (Instagram)

Shepard’s family and colleagues remembered her for her style, humor and dedication to community causes. Her work on stage and television left a lasting mark on audiences and fellow performers.

Image Referance: https://www.bet.com/article/8g2vz0/apollo-queen-kiki-shepard-dies-at-74